You are here

Fall Getaway to ArtPrize in Grand Rapids

Each fall, Grand Rapids’ ArtPrize is part art walk, part city tour and entirely vacation-worthy.

Possesses, a sculpture by Jason Graham at ArtPrize

+ enlarge

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

+ enlarge

Day 1

Start at one of seven exhibition centers to purchase a map and register to vote in this 19-day celebration that lets the public choose the winner of a $200,000 grand prize. Once you’re registered, you can give thumbs up or down to as many pieces as you’d like from your smartphone. Part of the draw is the sheer variety. To see as many pieces as possible, wear comfy shoes and plan plenty of breaks, including the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum.

The JW Marriott’s Six One Six breakfast buffet has killer made-to-order omelets. ArtPrize easily fills an entire weekend (you’ll want to hang out near the B.O.B. and stop by the highly trafficked Grand Rapids Art Museum).

But for something different, walk through the Heritage Hills district, where more than 1,300 homes reflect 60 architectural styles. And a trip to Grand Rapids wouldn’t be complete without eating at Rose’s on Reeds Lake, where the wood-fired pizzas are as fantastic as the lake views.